This qualitative study involved female superintendents in the state of Oklahoma. A survey questionnaire designed to gather demographic information was sent to the 48 practicing female superintendents during the 2000--2001 school year. A 50% response rate revealed that the female superintendents in the state were younger than the national average. They spent an average of 8.45 years in the classroom before becoming administrators. The number of female rural school superintendents was 10% higher than the national average. The most commonly followed track to the superintendency was that of teacher, central office. In depth interviews were conducted with 15 female superintendents. The phenomenological methodology was utilized for data collection and data analysis. Thirteen of the 15 female participants belonged to the first generation of women that attended college in large numbers. The women in this study evolved into the superintendency; career options were limited to them when they graduated from college. Relocation and familial responsibilities were not barriers to the superintendency. Gender issues were present, but were not an obstacle. The women in this study received support from their spouses, family and community. They received mentorship and have mentored others in their organizations. These women had a commitment to their profession, their students and hard work; they believed they could make a difference. The female administrators in this study were successful in the superintendency primarily because of their internal beliefs rather than their management skills.